The new Toyota Land Cruiser, set to be released in July and available for delivery in September, is priced at £74,995 in the UK. This revamped 4×4 vehicle has undergone significant changes to compete with the Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler, both of which it outprices by approximately £10,000. The Land Cruiser will be offered in two specifications: Invincible and First Edition, both featuring a 2.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. A 48V mild hybrid version will also be introduced next year.
The Invincible model, priced at £74,995, comes with a range of features including black leather upholstery, dual-zone air conditioning, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a head-up display. It also includes a JBL stereo, panoramic reversing camera, digital driver’s display, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a sunroof. On the other hand, the limited-edition First Edition starts at £79,995 and features unique badging, 18-inch wheels, and bespoke styling on the instrument panel, door trims, and upholstery. It also comes with a classic 1960s Land Cruiser 40-inspired paintjob.
The increased price of the Land Cruiser indicates a move upmarket, surpassing the starting prices of the Wrangler (£61,125) and Defender (£63,670). However, the Wrangler does not offer seven seats, while a seven-seat Defender 110 is priced around £70,000. The new Land Cruiser showcases design elements influenced by previous models, emphasizing its ability to withstand harsh conditions. It prioritizes practicality, durability, and dependability while aiming to provide improved on-road refinement and competitive levels of technology.
To achieve these goals, the Land Cruiser has transitioned from the old J150 platform to Toyota’s new Global Architecture. This new body-on-frame structure enhances the SUV’s maneuverability and on-road comfort. The chassis is 50% more rigid than its predecessor, resulting in a 30% stiffer body-on-frame assembly. Combined with improved suspension, these upgrades promise a more responsive and comfortable driving experience in all situations.
The fifth-generation Land Cruiser, codenamed J250, is slightly larger than its predecessor, measuring 4920mm long and 1870mm tall with a wheelbase of 2850mm. Its redesigned cabin reflects a departure from the previous model, featuring chunky physical controls alongside a full-length glass roof, multi-zone climate control, plush leather upholstery, and a wraparound digital display hosting a new-generation infotainment system. These additions indicate an attempt to compete more closely with the Land Rover Defender.
Despite the focus on refinement and technology, the Land Cruiser remains true to its off-road roots. It boasts increased wheel articulation, an upgraded Multi-Terrain Monitor interface, and improvements to the off-road driving modes. Notably, it is equipped with a disconnecting front anti-roll bar that can be disengaged for maximum wheel articulation on challenging trails.
The Land Cruiser initially utilizes a familiar 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine carried over from the previous model. However, Toyota plans to introduce an electrified version next year, combining the diesel engine with a 48V belt-integrated starter-generator for mild-hybrid assistance. While UK specifications have not been announced, it is expected that the new Land Cruiser will command a premium over the J150 and exceed £50,000 in its base form.
It is worth noting that there is no information yet regarding the replacement of the outgoing model’s smaller three-door version and bare-bones commercial variant.
In conclusion, the new Toyota Land Cruiser offers a refreshed design and upgraded features to position itself as a formidable competitor in the off-road vehicle market. With its off-road capabilities and improved on-road refinement, it aims to attract customers away from the Land Rover Defender and Jeep Wrangler. The Land Cruiser’s higher price reflects its move upmarket, while its additional features and technology make it a more appealing choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable SUV. With the introduction of a mild-hybrid variant next year, Toyota continues to adapt to changing market demands and environmental considerations.
